Thought I would keep everyone updated. This engine has 70K and was using about 1.5 qt per 2K miles. Factory authorized replacement.
Block replacement was completed yesterday. It came with a water pump but I had to pay for the belt and tensioner. The mechanic stated that the other parts were fine. Did not change the spark plugs because the dealer would not alter the labor charge whether the heads were out or not.
Got a chance to see the block. Dark oily carbon deposits on the piston crowns. Due to oil usage according to the mechanic. He theorized that the rings were coked up. All the pistons had equal deposits, but I could still see the relief cuts on the crowns.
Cylinder walls looked an even grey in color I guess due to the aluminum liners.
Looking for suggestions:
1. Break in. Easy (didn't work the first time) Hard (scares me)
2. First oil change? How soon?
3. Which oil viscosity? 5W-20 synthetic didn't seem to work the first time.
4. How often to change the oil to try to prevent stuck rings.
Thanks for your suggestions in advance.
Block replacement was completed yesterday. It came with a water pump but I had to pay for the belt and tensioner. The mechanic stated that the other parts were fine. Did not change the spark plugs because the dealer would not alter the labor charge whether the heads were out or not.
Got a chance to see the block. Dark oily carbon deposits on the piston crowns. Due to oil usage according to the mechanic. He theorized that the rings were coked up. All the pistons had equal deposits, but I could still see the relief cuts on the crowns.
Cylinder walls looked an even grey in color I guess due to the aluminum liners.
Looking for suggestions:
1. Break in. Easy (didn't work the first time) Hard (scares me)
2. First oil change? How soon?
3. Which oil viscosity? 5W-20 synthetic didn't seem to work the first time.
4. How often to change the oil to try to prevent stuck rings.
Thanks for your suggestions in advance.